2024-08-17 15:25:02
MOORSEBURG, Tenn. (WVLT) – A dirt track legend likely died in a plane crash in Hawkins County Friday, according to the Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash happened around 8 a.m., the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) told WVLT News. The agency also said only the pilot was on board.
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies responded to Brooks Road in Mooresburg, finding a plane that had crashed into a barn.
“Unidentified remains believed to be that of Scott Bloomquist, of Mooresburg, were found in the plane,” HCSO said.
Bloomquist is a nationally-touring dirt driver who was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa. The racer’s headquarters are located in Moorseburg.
The nine-time national champion has had a 40-year career in dirt racing, most recently taking home the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series in 2016 and the Dream XXIV feature at Eldora Speedway in 2018.
He also competed in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the ARCA Mendards Series.
The Team Zero Race Car owner was inducted into the National Dirt Late Model Hall of Fame in 2002.
World of Outlaws, a racing league Bloomquist was known to race in, released a statement:
Scott Bloomquist’s legendary status not only grew out of his accomplishments on the track, but his innovations throughout the dirt Late Model industry.
He played a hey role with DIRTcar Racing and the World of Outlaws, helping to re-build the World of Outlaws Late Models so it could grow into what it’s become today. His influences also helped the evolution of racetracks and chassis over the years.
Bloomquist’s passion for the sport and innovative mind will be deeply missed by all.
Additionally, Bristol Motor Speedway President and General Manager Jerry Caldwell also released a statement:
This is really a sad day for the world of motorsports as we mourn the passing of Scott Bloomquist, arguably the greatest dirt late model racer in the sport’s history. Scott was truly a champion, legend and hall of fame member in his craft and was a wonderful friend of Bristol Motor Speedway. He won one of the late model dirt races held here in 2001 and was always willing to help us promote our dirt races. We send our sincere condolences to his family and friends, as well as his legion of fans across the nation.
The county’s forensics department will make the final identification, HCSO said.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the crash.
This is a developing story.
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